The man that gave Ollie Watkins a first taste of senior football believes the Exeter City star will look at possible move to Bristol City in two different ways.

Ryan Northmore also says the reported interest from Leeds United makes sense when you look at things in greater detail.

The former Weston-super-Mare boss made Watkins one of his first signings when he took over at the Woodspring three years ago – with the 21-year-old going on to net 10 goals in 18 games for the National League South side during the 2014/15 season.

Watkins has since progressed through the ranks at Exeter – which includes helping get them to the League Two play-off final this season - and is reportedly now worth around £4m, with the likes of Leeds, Sheffield United and the Robins all keeping a close eye on the Torbay-born striker.

Northmore got a front row seat to watch Watkins take his opportunity at senior football level some years ago, and has he now aired his thoughts on a possible transfer to Ashton Gate this summer after the 16-goal attacker was recently linked with City.

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“If Ollie were to move there [City] he would have to step into Tammy Abraham’s shoes – that goes without question. They’re quite big shoes to fill but that’s not to say he couldn’t do it,” said the former Weston boss.

“Whether that’s the right move for Ollie I’m not so sure. But I guess if you look at what Bristol City have done for Tammy Abraham, not just what he has done for the club with his goals, then I can see it making sense. They’ve given Abraham a platform.

“There are two ways to look at it. It could be that it’s a lot of pressure for a young guy to take on. Or Ollie may look at that and think what a fantastic opportunity. Abraham is being linked with other Premier League sides in terms of another loan move. That could be Ollie Watkins in 18 months time so who knows?”

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“I can understand the link with Leeds and why they would want him,” he continued. “Garry Monk took Matt Grimes to Swansea from Exeter so there is that link with Paul Tisdale at Exeter. That’s a well-established link for Monk,” who in fact played under Tisdale at Team Bath.

He added: “I’m also sure there are quite a few agents getting involved but that’s how things are.”